​Diane Sawyer announced Wednesday that she is leaving “ABC World News,” passing the reins to weekend anchor and “20/20” host David Muir, who will take over starting Sept. 2.

“Good Morning America” co-host George Stephanopoulos was also named to the new position of Chief Anchor for the network, and will host breaking news and special events coverage for ABC News.

“As much as she loved leading World News to new heights — with so much important, brilliant and impactful reporting and a number one finish in the May sweep — Diane decided that now is the moment to concentrate full time on tackling big issues in new ways,” ABC News boss James Goldston said in a memo to staff on Wednesday.

Sawyer leaves the anchor desk after five years in a move that was reportedly entirely of her own choosing. She is keeping her ABC News anchor title, and will spearhead special reports and investigations for the network.

ABC’s shakeup in the news division could be an attempt to appeal to a younger generation of viewers as the audience for traditional evening newscasts continues to age. At 40 years old, Muir will be the youngest anchor among the Big Three evening newscasts.

Read More: Variety

Brief Take: ABC is moving to recast its news division as part of its continued assault on main rival NBC News and attract younger viewers who could help reverse overall aging trend among traditional broadcast news audiences.

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